The new Black Cats boss is expected behind his desk at the Stadium of Light next week after recharging his batteries on holiday.

But his time abroad has not stopped work behind the scenes on revamping the Sunderland squad.

Bruce is monitoring Peter Crouch's position at Portsmouth, and Darren Bent at Tottenham, but he has also had Valarenga striker Abdellaoue watched.

Sunderland had scouts watching the 23-year-old Norwegian international, who attracted interest from Manchester United last season, when Valerenga took on Bodo/Glimt last week. Abdellaoue, Norwegian of Morrocan descent, scored an injury-time winner.

Bruce is also looking afresh at Honduran midfielder Thomas, who he tried to sign for Wigan last season only for work-permit problems to kill the deal.

Thomas, who plays for Honduran side Club Olimpia, might now meet the criteria for a work-permit and Sunderland would hope to see off opposition from Bruce's former club if he becomes available.

Although Bruce believes a home-grown core to Sunderland's side is desirable, he will not shy away from signing foreign players.